Democratic caucus up for discussion in Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Democrats are looking to expand access to Iowa’s presidential caucuses to people who are typically unable to attend them. It’s a tricky task with these local political meetings that thrive on in-person discussion.

Party leaders said Thursday it’s not in response to criticism, but a way to expand access to grass-roots democracy.

Senior Iowa Democratic adviser Norm Sterzenbach said Thursday: “It’s an important part of our party to see if there are ways to make it more accessible.”

Caucuses are run by parties, and held at night, unlike primaries. Democrat Hillary Clinton said after the 2008 caucuses that they excluded night workers, among others. So far, suggestions include virtual participation and proxy voting.

In 2008, 240,000 Iowa Democrats — 39 percent — participated. That’s more than twice as many as the previous record.